Fight Baby Blues: Ways to Get Out of Your Post-Baby Funk

Whether this one's your first or your 10th, a new baby means numerous changes and difficult challenges. "It is not easy for any woman to take on the task of raising a precious newborn," noted Dr. Doris Jeanette, a licensed psychologist and author of "Depression: How to Unlearn Your Unhealthy Conditioning and Break Free." Jeanette explains that post-baby blues occur when new mothers avoid what they're feeling and don't have the skills to deal with the increased stress and anxiety of a new baby.

Anxiety, irritability, sleeping issues and even displays of fatigue or sadness are expected after giving birth. If symptoms become severe or long lasting, moms — and their partners — should consult a physician. "Baby blues occur in approximately 80 percent of patients, but should resolve over two weeks," said Dr. Erika Nichelson, OB/GYN at Mercy Medical Center in Baltimore, Maryland. Severe symptoms include feelings of shame or guilt, insomnia, no appetite, withdrawal, suicidal or homicidal tendencies and difficulty bonding with the baby.

"The interaction of genetic susceptibility with major life events and hormonal changes may explain why post partum depression affects some women and not others," noted Nichelson. With that said, Dr. Nichelson explained that "no hormonal factor has emerged consistently as the causative agent".

RELATED: Weirdest Things About Newborns

Dealing with post-pregnancy depression can also result in feelings of guilt. Guilt is never helpful. Acknowledge that you are working through a highly transitional stage in your life and that other new parents also go through these emotions. In short: Don't let guilt get the best of you.

"Writing for 15-to-20 minutes a day is a safe, effective way to express your emotions and feelings," explained Jeanette. She suggests writing down everything you feel on a piece of paper at least once a day. Writing can help you focus in on what's really bothering you, making it easier to address issues head on.

Engage in personal growth activities that teach you how to relax and reduce your anxiety, suggested Jeanette. You can take personal growth classes online, via audio or in person. Choose classes that teach anxiety reduction, assertiveness and coping mechanisms for stress.

RELATED: 10 Basics You Need for Your Newborn

Bottling up your emotions is unhealthy and can lead to more feelings of depression. Writing your feelings down on paper helps, but also open up to supportive family and friends about what you're going through.

"Get in therapy with an emotionally safe therapist," suggested Jeannette. In addition or as an alternative, join a group that allows you to express your innermost thoughts, feelings and struggles. Seeking out and participating in a "new mom support group" provides moms a supportive network of mothers who understand the struggles of such a sudden lifestyle change.

Your new baby will undoubtedly soak up an exorbitant amount of your time, but don't forget to set aside some time for yourself. Maintain the same morning and personal care routine you did before giving birth and continue partaking in activities that you enjoy.

RELATED: How to Hide a Post-Partum Pooch

While every mother should accept the responsibilities of a new baby, don't try to take it all on yourself. "She needs to ask for help from her partner and others so that all the responsibility isn't on her shoulders," said Jeanette.

"Depression is an avoidance of your feelings, emotions and anxiety," said Jeanette. "The way to get rid of your depression is to face and deal with these issues instead of avoiding them." Jeanette said that acknowledging your post-baby funk, being assertive and facing your new challenges head on will help you overcome anxiety and deal with stress.

According to Dr. Nichelson, postpartum psychosis most commonly presents within two weeks of childbirth. "Hallucinations and delusions are usually present, often with thought disorganization and/or bizarre behavior," she said. "Suicidal and homicidal ideation (directed towards the infant and sometimes towards other children in the home) are common features of postpartum psychosis." Women at increased risk for postpartum psychosis include those with a family/personal history of bipolar disorder or postpartum psychosis.